Since the Panama Canal was on my bucket list of places to see, this partial transit cruise from Miami fit our schedule perfectly. While this was our first time on the Pearl, we have done all the other "jewel" class ships and really like the size and design of these ships. We found all the staff to be friendly, efficient, and professional. The wait staff in the Summer Palace, the Bistro, and the Outdoor Garden Cafe were exceptional in providing excellent service and personal attention. Also, Guest Services were very helpful when we had a problem with noise in our cabin. After investigating the issue, they moved us to another cabin within 24 hours of the first report.

We thought the food was very good with quite a wide variety of choices. All of our breakfasts were in the Outdoor Garden Cafe where we enjoyed not only good food but beautiful views. The omelet station was a favorite spot. Most dinners were in the Summer Palace where we were pleased with the menu choices, some of which changed daily while others were constant. The food was hot and nicely presented. Several dinners were in the Bistro, one of our favorite restaurants. The mushroom soup was a favorite as well as beef tenderloin and pork tenderloin. Wonderfully presented dishes in a relaxing, upscale setting with great service.

Entertainment was okay - some shows better than others. The Tenors of Rock and Legends in Concert were fantastic. There were the standard acts - comedian, magician, hypnotist, singer - as well as production numbers which were enjoyable. Read more